Need help with Latin Formula for an unusual Saint Benedict Cross
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Can someone help translate the Latin formula used on the left side of the cross below. I already know the right side is the formula for Saint Benedict's Medal but the letters on the left still elude me. I'm assuming they relate to the Saint Benedict prayers of protection, because of what is known about it so far.
I believe the letters on the left are delineated by the Greek cross between some of the letters but that's just an assumption on my part. Anyone familiar with this representation of the St. Benedict's Medal or perhaps the formula on the left looks familiar to someone familiar with the Benedictine Order.
If it helps, the translation of the formula on the right is below.
CSS is found diagonal on the top, then ML-NDSMD going down from right center.
C S S M L - N D S M D, initials of the words Crux sacra sit mihi lux! Non draco sit mihi dux! ("May the holy cross be my light! May the dragon (devil) never be my overlord!")
Then these letters are found on the crossbars (just to the right of the vertical phrase mentioned above)
V R S N S M V - S M Q L I V B, in reference to Vade retro satana: Vade retro Satana! Nunquam suade mihi vana! Sunt mala quae libas. Ipse venena bibas! ("Begone Satan! Never tempt me with your vanities! What you offer me is evil. Drink the poison yourself!")
At the bottom the is CSPB, listed left to right and top down.
C S P B in reference to Crux Sancti Patris Benedicti ("The Cross of [our] Holy Father Benedict").
Also possibly of note, it's on double cross bar often associate with a Caravaca or Crusaders cross with a Celtic design at center.

Asked by Naeco
(245 rep)
Apr 24, 2017, 12:49 AM
Last activity: Aug 10, 2021, 08:15 PM
Last activity: Aug 10, 2021, 08:15 PM